EDUCATION SHAKE-UP: The Wyoming Senate gave preliminary approval to a bill to strip powers from the elected state superintendent of public instruction. Senate File 104 would create a new director of state education appointed by the governor. Many state lawmakers have voiced concern that state Superintendent Cindy Hill has failed to follow legislative direction on school accountability efforts. She has defended her record. The Senate is set to consider the bill again on Tuesday.

FUEL TAX: The House Revenue Committee gave preliminary approval to a bill that would raise the state fuel tax by a dime, up from 14 cents to 24 cents per gallon for gasoline. The bill now goes to the House.